Africa-Press – Kenya. Enock Onchari clinched the 10Km race during second edition of the Nyamira Great Run series on Sunday.
Onchari, who also won the 10Km cross country race during the first edition last weekend, clocked 29:50.63 to win the race which was flagged off by Nyamira Deputy Governor James Gesami.
The Masaba North 10Km race started at Metamaywa on the Kisii-Sotik Road and finished at Nyakongo High School. Onchari dominated the race after overcoming a stiff challenge from Stephen Arita (29:57.31), Kibon Ogato (30:14.56) and Felix Boera (30:15.38), who finished second, third and fourth respectively.
Onchari, an experienced road runner attributed the win to his tactical acumen.
“It was a good race for me today. Winning back-to-back races is not easy. I’m using these races to prepare for the Nyamira Great Run 21Km race,” said the Iten-based athlete. “The course was not bad and the weather was favourable.”
Pre-race favourite Sammy Nyokaye came home sixth after crossing the finishing line in 30:37.38 ahead of Dancun Nyangara (30:43.69).
In the women’s category, Chepkoech emerged winner beating Beatrice Begi to second place.
Faith Chepkoech clocked 34:50.67 to win the women’s race ahead of Beatrice Begi, who timed 35:25.08.
“It was a very tough race but I want to thank God for the win,” said Chepkoech.
Begi, who won the senior women’s race during last weekend’s Ensoko Cross Country said: “I felt some stomach discomfort after the first five kilometres. However, I’m happy with the second-place finish. My focus is on the next event.”
Nancy Kerage was third in 36:38.62 with Christine Oigo ( 37:53.95), Doris Omari (40:57.21) and Tecla Nyabuto (42:25.81) sealing the top six positions.
Lilian Kebati won the 5Km junior women’s cross country title in 22:05.00, followed by Nelly Mandere (23:29.57).
Jackson Moindi won the men’s 5Km race in 16:00.18 with Brian Michieka (16.34.00) and Elias Ogeto (17:54.50) second and third respectively.
The five-part series will culminate with the Nyamira Great Run 21Km race on October 31 at Ikonge Primary School.
Gesami said he was impressed by the excitement that had been created by the series.
“Last weekend, we were in Borabu and today we are here at Nyakongo. I’m happy with the huge turnout. Next Sunday, we are heading to Nyamusi in Nyamira North,” said Gesami.
